Athens

Description

Situated on a plain between five mountains, Athens can get hot, dirty and sticky in summer. However at the city's center stands the iconic Acropolis, a don't miss attraction for tourists from all over the globe. Near the Acropolis lies the welcoming tourist-friendly district of Plaka, a place full of historic interest, and these two form the linchpin of a visit to the historic city.

The Acropolis

The top attracation in Athens is the Acropolis, a 150 m (512 ft) rock in the center of the city topped with a series of temples erected in around 400BC. The beauty of these ancient monuments makes the Acropolis world-famous. There is a 12 euro fee to gain entrance. At the top of the Acropolis sits the magnificent Parthenon, an amazing ancient Greek temple, a magestic sight from almost everywhere in Athens. Nearby stands is the Erechtheion. The 6 caryatids that serve as pillars are not real, you can see 5 originals in the Acropolis museum. Number 6 is in the British Museum in London, together with substantial parts of the Parthenon frieze.

Syntagma Square
Look at the soldiers dressed in their unique skirt with coordinated tights and bizarre shoes. Especially recommended is the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Roman Forum
The Roman Forum can be found at the west side of Plaka. Here sits the remarkable Horologion of Andronikos, an eight sided tower with a different wind god mounted on each side. Joint ticket with Acropolis.

Plaka
Just down from the Acropolis lies Plaka. This pretty area is made up of pedestrian meandering streets.

The Shops in Plaka
There are a ton of local products worth considering. olive oil, small carpets, and leather shoes are all manufactured/grown nearby and give great value for money. The local antiques market is always busy and fascinating.

Restaurants in Plaka
Eating in one of the sidewalk restaurants savouring a plate of tasty food with some ouzo is a great way to spend the lunch hour.